Game Boy Advance
Nintendo's revolutionary 32-bit handheld gaming system
Quick Facts
- Released
- 2001 (Japan)
- 2001 (North America)
- 2001 (Europe)
- Discontinued
- 2010 worldwide
- Units Sold
- 81.51 million worldwide
- Best-selling Game
- Pokémon Ruby/Sapphire (16.22 million)
Overview
The Game Boy Advance represented a massive leap in portable gaming technology, offering SNES-quality graphics in a handheld format. Its library includes both original titles and enhanced ports of 16-bit classics.
Technical Specifications
CPU
- ARM7TDMI @ 16.8 MHz
- Z80 coprocessor for Game Boy compatibility
Graphics
- Resolution: 240 × 160 pixels
- 32,768 colors
- Sprites: up to 128 on screen
- Sprite size: various sizes up to 64×64
Audio
- Dual 8-bit DAC for stereo sound
- 6 sound channels
- DMA sound channels
- Game Boy sound chip
Memory
- 32 KB System RAM
- 96 KB VRAM
- 256 KB WRAM
Iconic Games
Pokémon Ruby/Sapphire
2002The third generation of Pokémon games, introducing double battles and numerous gameplay innovations.
Mario Kart: Super Circuit
2001Brought the Mario Kart series to handheld format with great success.
Metroid Fusion
2002A worthy successor to Super Metroid, featuring intense action and atmospheric exploration.
Golden Sun
2001Original RPG featuring unique Psynergy system and stunning graphics for the platform.
Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow
2003Considered one of the best Castlevania games with its soul collection system.
The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap
2004Unique Zelda adventure featuring size-changing mechanics and charming art style.
Advance Wars
2001Accessible yet deep turn-based strategy game that spawned multiple sequels.
Final Fantasy Tactics Advance
2003Deep tactical RPG with job system and engaging story.
WarioWare, Inc.: Mega Microgame$!
2003Innovative collection of fast-paced microgames with unique humor.
Legacy
The GBA proved that sophisticated gaming experiences were possible on handheld systems and introduced several innovations:
- Backward compatibility with Game Boy games
- Advanced graphics capabilities for a handheld
- Multiplayer connectivity features
- Wide variety of form factors (original, SP, Micro)
Many of the franchises born on the Game Boy Advance continue to be major forces in gaming today, demonstrating the lasting influence of this revolutionary console.